HAYLEY LANGTON AND DEREK YEOMANS FROM SPONDON FACE JUSTICE OVER DOG KEETA'S HORRIFIC SUFFERING

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Spondon, Derby, two individuals, Hayley Langton, aged 23, and Derek Yeomans, aged 69, have admitted to causing prolonged and unnecessary suffering to a dog named Keeta. The incident, which spanned several months, involved severe neglect that left the animal in a state of unimaginable pain and distress.

Keeta, an Akita, was discovered in a deplorable condition at an address on Willowcroft Road, Spondon. The dog was found with her fur completely gone and her eyes covered in a thick green discharge, indicating a severe and untreated health crisis. RSPCA workers responded swiftly to the scene, rescuing Keeta and rushing her to a veterinary centre for urgent care. The veterinary professionals who examined her described the condition as one they had never encountered before, particularly noting the extreme dryness of her eyes, which registered zero on both tests conducted. This dryness had caused her significant pain and discomfort.

The court proceedings revealed that the last veterinary consultation for Keeta had taken place in September 2013, suggesting that her suffering had gone unnoticed or unaddressed for an extended period. It was established that while Ms. Langton was the registered owner of Keeta, the dog was kept at the residence of Mr. Yeomans. The vet's assessment indicated that Keeta had been enduring her condition for at least six years, suffering from a severe skin ailment and ear infections. The neglect was so profound that her health had deteriorated to a critical level, with her suffering only becoming apparent when she was finally examined.

Andrew Cash, the prosecutor, explained that Ms. Langton believed Keeta was suffering from a cold that persisted for about a month, but she failed to recognize the severity of her pet’s condition. Her lifestyle, described as chaotic and involving frequent absences, contributed to her inability to notice the extent of Keeta’s suffering. Despite her dire state, Keeta has since been rescued and is now in the care of a veterinary nurse who has fostered her. Although she still exhibits signs of hair loss, her recovery is ongoing, and she is responding positively to the love and attention she is now receiving.

District Judge Jonathan Taaffe addressed the court, emphasizing the gravity of the neglect. He stated, “Keeta is now properly looked after and responding to love and care that any domestic animal needs. This is not a matter that Keeta suddenly became ill, developed skin conditions and eye problems. It’s a situation where Keeta has clearly been in great distress over a significant period of time. The pain and distress that the dog must have been in could not be imagined.” The judge also highlighted that while this case did not involve outright cruelty or sadistic intent, it was a clear case of neglect stemming from the owners’ circumstances.

As part of their sentencing, both Langton and Yeomans received a three-month curfew from 7 pm to 7 am, along with a 12-month community order. They were also ordered to pay £490 each in court costs. Furthermore, both individuals have been disqualified from owning dogs indefinitely, a measure aimed at preventing any future neglect or abuse. This case serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities pet owners bear and the importance of vigilance in caring for animals, especially those in vulnerable conditions.